Outside of Cuba, Miami has the most prominent Cuban diaspora in the world, and the influence of the Cuban people is felt in every corner of the Magic City. Undoubtedly, one of the best experiences for those who visit the city is to taste the incredible and varied Cuban gastronomy that promises an experience like no other. And everyone who visits Miami has to go to at least one of the best Cuban restaurants in Miami that we have featured in this list.
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3555 SW 8th St. / Website
They call it the most famous Cuban restaurant in the world, and did you get to know Miami if you didn't go to Versailles? That is why we have included it in our list of the best Cuban restaurants in Miami. In addition to delicious Cuban food like Paella Versailles, Red Snapper Filet, Cuban Roasted Pork, Sauteed Liver, and other staples, you will also find delicious Cuban desserts like the famous Cuban Flan Guava Cheesecake and other delicacies. Do not forget to try the Sangría, Piña Colada, mojitos, and other signature drinks on its drinks menu. But this restaurant, which for four decades has been delivering delectable Cuban cuisine and culture to the South Florida community and visitors from all over the world, is also a favorite among the media for gathering commentary and footage of the community's take on social and political topics. It's not surprising that politicians visit the restaurant to gain support from the Cuban exile population. Media from all over are guaranteed local perspectives when they come to this establishment. Without a doubt a place with delicious food and a global influence.
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701 S Miami Ave Brickell City Center 4th Floor / Website
Located in the Brickell City Center, this popular restaurant homages Cuban culture and takes inspiration from the Cuban provincial cities of Camagüey and Pinar del Rio in its decoration and overall ambiance. The restaurant's handmade food brings Cuban countryside dishes to the table with bursts of smokey, rich flavors from its charcoal cooking. Similarly, the cuisine features a diverse menu that includes large-format meats, rices, veggies, and seafood like tostones rellenos, truffle yuca fries, and empanadas. It features traditional dishes like Lechon Asado (roasted pork), Picadillo A La Habanera (Cuban ground beef stew), Ropa Vieja (marinated flank steak), and more. Desserts like four leches and Cuban pudding can be paired with a Cuban cafecito (coffee). A sleek Havana-inspired bar takes center stage, serving a selection of hand-picked traditional Cuban drinks with a modern twist like the classics mojito and daiquiri or the Marabu Mule's, a restaurant's creation, and others. This is one fabulous spot you will not want to miss.
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1442 SW 8th St. / Website
Olds' Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina is located on Little Havana's famous "Calle Ocho," frequented by tourists and residents alike looking for Miami's Cuban heartbeat. This popular establishment transports guests to a pre-revolutionary era when Cuba's mood was cheerful and full of passion, thanks to vintage decorations and music. Their authentic Cuban cuisine speaks for itself with the flavors of years of history. Dubbed "La Casa de la Daiquiri," this restaurant serves a variety of Cuban cocktails, including Hemingway's favorite Daiquiri and the famous Cuban mojito. Guests can also enjoy the Cuban rhythm with live music while relaxing in our inside dining area on their magnificent outdoor terrace while they want Cuban staples like Ropa Vieja, Croquetas, salads, grilled fish, and much more. Here you will have a tremendous Cuban experience.
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3632 SW 8th St. / Website
In 1976, the first La Carreta opened on Calle Ocho in Little Havana. Following Cuba's revolutionary takeover in 1959, a large and growing number of Cuban exiles relocated to Miami to pursue a community that resembled their homeland. La Carreta arose from a growing need for an authentic cultural center. This restaurant is a staple of traditional Cuban family eating traditions of "abuela style" food and famously original Cuban coffee because a Cuban family owns it. Thousands of Miami residents and tourists are served authentic Cuban cuisine and coffee every day in multiple locations. This establishment fosters a sense of community among Cubans and everyone who visits, besides offering great Cuban staples like Braised Oxtail, Breaded Chicken Breast, Charbroiled Guava BBQ Chicken, Grilled Pork Chops, and more from its extensive menu. Also, try Cuban coffee, "La Carreta" Cuban Espresso, Malta Soda, natural juices, and more. A must-try in the Magic City.
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1443 Washington Ave / Website
If you want to experience Cuba outside the island, this is the perfect place. Its classic Cuban decor inspired by tradition, eccentric and colorful, accompanied by railings with flowers, outdoor seating, a traditional Cuban bar, and excellent service will complement your gastronomic experience perfectly. Classic dishes like Vaca Frita A La Campesina (Braised, shredded, and griddled flank steak with grilled onions), Cubano Sandwich, Pesca Malecón (Whole fried Florida Snapper), Croquetas, and more, you are guaranteed something special. Also, don't forget to try its special signature cocktails like the Havana Blue or the Celia Cruz Old Fashioned, among others. Regardless of what you choose to eat or drink, you are guaranteed a great experience.
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1410 Ocean Drive / Website
This popular destination, which has several locations across the city, will make you feel like you were in Havana and relive the glamor of old Cuba from the 50s through a fantastic gastronomic experience like no other. Inside, its decor is inspired by Cuba with red and yellow tones and lots of leather and wood that will create a great ambiance typical of Cuba. Here you will find typical dishes such as Garlic Shrimp, Cuban Fried Pork Chunks, a Cuban Sampler, and more. Also, breakfast items like the famous Cuban Tortilla (omelette), midnight sandwich, or the typical Cuban lunch boxes offer soups, salads, or main dishes and their delicious side; a varied menu. And, don't forget to try their delicious drinks like fruity mojitos, Cuba Libre rum, signature cocktails like the Habana Cosmo, and others. You have to visit a place, and when you are satisfied, you can walk along the famous Ocean Drive.
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944 Washington Ave / Website
Located at the foot of the famous art deco Chelsea Hotel in the heart of South Beach, old Havana brings you authentic Cuban flavors, where all dishes taste great. The establishment is designed to give customers the best Cuban experience. Everything is bright and cheery, from the music playing in the restaurant to the brightly colored seats and orange walls. You will find beautiful murals, paintings with different images alluding to Cuba, and more art deco decorations on the walls. You can also find the best Cuban cuisine, such as empanadas, habanero ceviche, roasted chicken, burgers, Cuban coffee, etc. Here you can enjoy delicious signature cocktails like Havana Vieja Old Fashioned, classic mojitos, Hemingway's Malecon, wines, etc. This restaurant will make your experience one-of-a-kind.
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5859 SW 73rd St. / Website
One of the best Cuban restaurants in South Miami, its warm decoration of white and blue tones will welcome you as if you were at home, in addition to the delicious food it offers. Here, you will find famous Cuban dishes such as Palomilla Bistec, Stuffed Tostones, Casa Cuba Salad, Cuban sandwiches, Cuban Roasted Pork, etc. Also delicious Cuban Arroz Con Leche (rice pudding), Flan and great drinks, etc. The ambiance and excellent service will provide you with the best Cuban gastronomic experience that will make you want to come back.
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4612 S Le Jeune Road / Website
Are you looking for the best food and the most amazing desserts? Look no further and come to this Cuban and American fusion restaurant. Havana Harry's is a contemporary restaurant with a great take on Cuban, Spanish, and Latin American cuisine. This great establishment will quickly become your favorite location for authentic food and drinks with authentic quality food, whether you come for lunch, dinner, happy hour, or late at night. With a different fresh, and modern look, its decoration makes the place feel like a spot for social gatherings and elegant casual eating. Its dessert menu, which offers some of its most popular items, has options such as the delicious Cookie Skillet Sundae, Nutella Cheesecake, Flan Cheesecake, Tres Leches de Coco, and more. In addition to delicious dishes such as Cuban-style tamales, Chicharrones, Ceviches, a wide variety of seafood dishes, healthy options, and more Cuban staples. One of the best restaurants to enjoy delicious food and have a fun and unique experience.
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2500 E Hallandale Beach Blvd. / Website
This family-owned and operated chain of Cuban restaurants offers excellent Cuban food and service, accompanied by handcrafted drinks. All served in a contemporary-warm ambiance to provide the best Cuban culinary experience. Here you will find traditional dishes such as Picadillo (Cuban Ground Beef), seafood choices, Ham Croquetas, delicious soups, Roasted Cuban Pork, etc. Try its delightful mojitos such as the Guava Mojito, the Lychee Mojito, imported beers, Sangria, wines, etc. You are guaranteed a tremendous Cuban experience and delicious food.
Photography by: Courtesy Gayatri Malhotra, Marc Schulte
